Letter from General Washington to General Ward

v6:436

New-York, May 13, 1776.

SIR: Your favour of the 4th instant, with the return of the division of the Army under your command, is come to hand. The account you give of your progress in fortifying the town and harbour of Boston, is very agreeable. When the works are completed, I think you will have but little to apprehend from the enemy, should they incline to pay you another visit.

Enclosed is a petition from Colonel Varnum, which I beg you will attend to. If the facts are as set forth therein, he must be redressed; for if such practices as he complains of are given the least countenance to, it will have the worst of consequences, by encouraging soldiers to shift from one regiment to another, and throw the whole Army into confusion.

I have had no advice from Congress relative to your resignation. I shall write them this day, to know whom they may think proper to appoint to the command in your State. When I receive their answer, you shall be informed thereof.

Enclosed is a copy of a resolve of Congress respecting the cannon in the Colony of Massachusetts-Bay.

I am, sir, your most obedient servant,

GEORGE WASHINGTON.

To Major-General Ward, Boston.